Attitude dynamics of a spacecraft with variable structure at presence of harmonic perturbations

Abstract

Attitude dynamics of a spacecraft (SC) with variable structure (inertia–mass parameters variation) is examined. Equations of the motion of the SC are obtained on the base of Hamiltonian formalism in Serret–Andoyer variables. These equations can be used for analysis and synthesis of conditions of the SC attitude motion on active legs of orbital trajectories. Analytical and numerical modeling of the SC motion is realized. Existence of the SC chaotic modes of motion is demonstrated with the help of Melnikov method and Poincaré sections. Also attitude motion of a dual-spin spacecraft (DSSC) is considered at presence of small internal harmonic torque between DSSC coaxial bodies.